Turkey's Aegean shores are among the
loveliest landscapes in the country. The magnificent coastline, lapped
by the clear water of the Aegean Sea, abounds in vast and pristine beaches
surrounded by olive groves, rocky crags and pine woods. Dotted with idyllic
fishing harbors, popular holiday villages and the remains of ancient
civilizations attesting to the inheritance of more than 5,000 years
of history, culture and mythology, this region
offers a holiday with something for everyone - nature
lovers, sun worshippers, photographers, sports enthusiasts, sailors
and archaeologists. Along the whole length of the coast, accommodations
to suit every taste and price range can be found.

The Aegean coastal plain enjoys an exceptionally mild
climate, with
soft, verdant springs, hot summers, sunny autumns and warm winters marked
by occasional showers. Aegean region has perpendicular mountains to its shores and many
valleys between them, thus permitting the sea
climate reach inner parts of the region,
although some of the provinces inland show also characteristics of Continental
climate.
For sunbathing and water sports, the summer months
are ideal; for exploring the ancient ruins and picturesque countryside,
spring and autumn are the most inviting months. The Aegean provides the
perfect escape from the rigors of a northern winter: even in January and
February, the days are sunny and pleasant.

The region occupies 11% of the total area of Turkey with its 79.000 square kilometers of land.
Most of the population and cities are concentrated on the coast line because of its
convenience for sea transportation and tourism. The Aegean region is also both
industrialized and agriculturalized. Main products are; textile, leather,
carpet weaving,
food, machinery and spare parts, marble, tobacco, sugar, olive and olive oil.
About half of the total olive trees of Turkey are in this region.
There are many important rivers feeding the Aegean Sea.

Izmir, the gateway to the Aegean region, is
connected to Istanbul by frequent
air and land connections. The plane flight is about 50 minutes, while comfortable
overnight buses reach Izmir in about seven hours.
Convenient train connection can be made from the Istanbul
- Bandirma fast ferry, a two-hour ride across the Marmara
Sea. There are also sea connections between Trieste (Italy) to Cesme. By private car, Izmir
can be reached via Bursa road or via Canakkale
coastal road. For travelers wishing to begin their journey further
to the south, the Dalaman airport near Marmaris is served by regularly scheduled and
charter airlines. Self-drive car rentals can be
arranged for pick-up at the airport or in the city.